Asad Qureshi and Christiana Spens: Surviving the Taliban

Don't miss this gripping discussion with Asad Qureshi, author of 165 Days: Prisoner of the Taliban, as he shares his harrowing firsthand account of being held captive by the Taliban.

Asad’s story is one of survival against unimaginable odds, offering an insider’s perspective on the resilience required to endure such a traumatic experience.

Asad will be in conversation with Dr Christiana Spens, author of The Portrayal and Punishment of Terrorists in Western Media and The Fear. Christiana’s work delves into how Western media shapes public perceptions of terrorism and dissent, often influencing the political and social response to these complex issues. Her latest book, The Fear, also explores the psychological impact of terrorism and the ways in which fear is manipulated by both terrorists and those who fight them.

Hear directly from Asad Qureshi about his experience as a prisoner of the Taliban, the challenges he faced and the emotional and psychological toll of his ordeal. How do individual stories like Asad’s fit into the broader media portrayal of terrorism, and what can be done to ensure these narratives are accurately represented?

Gain a rare insight into the personal experience of surviving captivity by one of the world’s most feared terrorist organisations. Engage with two experts who bring both personal experience and academic rigour to one of the most pressing issues of our time.

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Folkestone Book Festival is our annual celebration of books, ideas, reading and writing in many magical forms. This year's festival has been curated by award-winning author and journalist Sophie Haydock. Sophie is our new Curator: Books, Ideas and Community.

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This year's festival is for everyone and we want to make it possible for more people than ever before to be able to come together and enjoy a packed festival. To make this possible we have introduced a £5 ticket. This is a no questions asked ticket for those that may be struggling to afford events and performances.

Or grab a festival pass and enjoy the whole festival for just £140. Click here to book your festival pass

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We thank our sponsors Eurotunnel, Friends of the Folkestone Book Festival and our Education Partner Canterbury Christ Church University for making this year's festival possible.

Creative Folkestone is also supported by Arts Council England, Folkestone and Hythe District Council, Kent County Council and The Roger De Haan Charitable Trust.